My Heart Beats For Eagles – Juwon Oshaniwa

February 10th 2013 was the day of the AFCON final with the Nigerian Super Eagles taking on Burkina Faso.

Just after half time with Nigeria leading courtesy of Sunday Mba’s goal, left-back Elderson Echiejile pulled up and was replaced by Juwon Oshaniwa, then of Ashdod in Israel. It was his first game of the tournament. Surely he must have been nervous.

“People don’t understand what is meant by a squad game. That a player is on the bench does not mean he is not capable. I knew I was capable and so when I got on all I was thinking was I have to do my part to ensure we keep a clean sheet and therefore become champions. I was not nervous at all.”

Anyone who saw that match will believe him as the Super Eagles won a third Afcon title.

Juwon Oshaniwa won his national team caps under Stephen Keshi but has not won another since the 2-2 draw in Uyo last year that condemned Nigeria to losing their Afcon trophy.

“It was a deeply sad day in the dressing room after that disappointment. We gave ourselves a lot to do following the first defeat in the group but we thought we could get that win, especially at home to take us through. Sadly, that did not happen.”

Since that match in Uyo Kingsley Madu and Chima Akas have played in that left back position along with Echiejile for new coach Sunday Oliseh.

Does Oshaniwa desire to be back?

“It is always an honour to play for my country. Very few things can match playing for huge country like Nigeria. I expect the new coach to be doing things his way and checking out some players. I know what I’m able to bring to any football team. He was at the Brazil World Cup and saw me, so he knows what I am capable of doing. I am always available to play for my country.”